MBOMBELA – A traditional leader who is also a magistrate by profession has called on the Department of Education to investigate teachers who impregnate young girls and continue teaching as if nothing happened.
“If they fail, they must report them to courts and we will investigate and arrest them,” said Hosi Theophilus Magwagwaza Mnisi, the magistrate of Mhala Magistrate’s Court while addressing throngs of learners, parents and stakeholders who attended the recent opening of Acorn to Oaks Comprehensive School in Bohlabela District, Acornhoek.
Mnisi also called on men to be responsible citizens of the country, to respect themselves and care for young girls as fathers and leaders of the community.
He came down hard on men who view young girls as sex objects. In his speech, Mnisi did not only side with girls, he also sternly warned them about the dangers of teenage pregnancy.
“It’s pathetic to see the increase of teenage pregnancy, with girls who will bear a child of every area they move to.It’s pathetic to see them and their babies being helped by their grandmothers queuing for social grants.”
In his address, the chief also proved that indeed education was a societal issue and that it takes a village to raise a child. Mnisi warned the youth against taking drugs, and urged them to focus on their education and equip themselves with skills to fight poverty and unemployment in the area.
“Don’t misuse this opportunity, grab it with both hands. Learn and keep on learning and we looking forward to the growing of this school to an extent that it will open doors to many learners,” he said.
Mnisi urged the leaders of the school to check on the capabilities of educators before the school could consider adding more subjects to its curriculum.
“We don’t need certified learners, but our kids need proper education and guidance to be employable out there,” he said.
This newspaper learnt from reliable sources that the Department of Education had channels open for anyone to report any irregularities committed by teachers, including teachers who had affairs with learners and those who ended up impregnating them.
Parents were urged to report any irregularities with the principals, school-governing board members, circuits and district offices or even lay criminal charges with the police.
“The matter will then be thoroughly investigated and disciplinary action against the teacher will be taken based on the findings.
“A teacher found guilty of impregnating a learner can be suspended without pay or even be dismissed. No educator is allowed to have romantic affairs with learners,” he ended.
